The purpose of this unit is to give interested students a brief history of photography as well as experience in using photography as an art form, all in the context of God’s word. As is my book, The Checklist, I have organized the unit according to Luke 2:52, "And Jesus increased in wisdom, and stature, and in favor with God and man."

Please remember that all art forms, including photography, contain images that may not be suitable for children. Preview all resources before assigning to your children.

I recommend that this unit for students ages 10 and up, depending upon their interest. It can be completed in nine weeks; 2-3 lessons per week, 30-45 minutes per lesson. If your child has a gift for photography and wants to pursue the optional activities, you could use it as a 1/2 year or 1 year elective for high school.

During the unit, read as many of the recommended books as possible (independent or family reading).

Wisdom, Part I: Acquire knowledge about God and His story.

(Lesson 1) Photography as an art form. What does the Bible say about art?

Leviticus 26:1, "Ye shall make you no idols nor graven image, neither rear you up a standing image, neither shall ye set up any image of stone in your land, to bow down unto it: for I am the LORD your God.

We are not to create art (images) to worship; however, Ezekiel 4:1 says, "Now, son of man, take a clay tablet, put it in front of you and draw the city of Jerusalem on it." Therefore, we know that art may be used for other purposes.

God expects us to use His gifts for His Glory. In 1 Kings 7:13-45, we see Huram as an example. He was gifted in bronze work and used his gift to create pomegranates, lilies, gourds, bulls, and lions for the Temple.

A brief history of photography:

(Lesson 2) The art of photography began in 1839 with the Daguerreotype and continues today in many forms. Create a timeline of important events in the field of photography. Timeline Resource.

(Lesson 3) Research one or more famous photographers. In addition to their contribution to photography, try to learn about their relationship with God and how it affected their work. Resources:

(Lesson 13) Light. Pick one subject and photograph it at sunrise, during the daytime, and at sundown. Take the same photo on a snowy, foggy or rainy day. Prepare an exhibit and explain what happens to light and shadows in each scenario.

(Lesson 19) Pick one shape (triangle, square, circle, oval, star, hexagon) and take photos of everything you can find that contains that shape. Create a display of these photos and ask your family or friends if they can identify the theme.

(Lesson 20) Take a series of pictures based on a theme or idea such as unusual architecture, flowers, reflections, insects, etc. and create a display.

Ask to go along with a professional photographer as an "assistant" or even to just watch.

Create a photography portfolio.

Create a photography business card.

Select one photography career that interests you the most and research it: Fine Art, Portraits, Wedding, Commercial (Fashion & Advertising), Architectural, Sports, Newspaper, Forensic, Biomedical, Law, Travel, Public Relations. Find out what type of work is done and what training is needed.